Diane King discusses her successful robotic-assisted partial knee replacement surgery that was performed at Glenbrook Hospital in February 2010.
It’s a fact; most people expect to remain active, productive and physically fit at any age. However, it’s also a fact that the way we live, work and exercise has a dramatic impact on realizing those goals. NorthShore University HealthSystem’s Total Joint Replacement Center (TJRC) at Glenbrook Hospital and Skokie Hospital anticipate and understand those expectations. For more than two decades the Center has treated more than 1000 patients each year. That long history of exceptional and successful care has lead to a program that is completely patient-focused.
The Patient Experience
The Center is patient-focused and patient-friendly. Its staff is trained to address each individual patient’s needs. Educating the patient is one important element in the TJRC experience. From the moment patients are referred to the Center, they learn about what to expect before, during and after the surgery.
Who Benefits?
The Total Joint Replacement Center is currently designed to help patients undergoing hip or knee replacement. Additionally, the Center actively conducts research, in collaboration with NorthShore University HealthSystem’s Research Institute, with the objective of providing the best outcomes for all TJRC patients.
Innovation and Treatment Options
Orthopaedic surgeons at NorthShore University HealthSystem are leaders when it comes to Total Joint Replacement offering innovative technology and treatment options including:
- Experience in making surgery less invasive through shorter incisions and minimizing surgical trauma to muscles and tissues surrounding the replaced joint.
- Computer-assisted surgery for knees and hip replacements increasing precision and reliability of the surgery.
- Establishment of progressive pain management strategies that speed recovery and minimize postoperative pain.
All these factors combine to make the surgical experience better and allow reproducible successful outcomes.
Advanced Technology
The TJRC offers the latest advancements and technology to NorthShore University HealthSystem patients. One example of this new technology is hip resurfacing – an alternative to traditional total hip replacement. Recently approved in the U.S., hip resurfacing is designed primarily for younger patients, according to James C. Kudrna, MD, orthopaedic surgeon. “Unlike the prosthesis used in traditional hip replacement, which is made to replace the femoral head, the resurfacing prosthesis is designed to preserve, reshape and cap the femoral head,” said Kudrna. “In many cases, hip resurfacing is preferable because it saves bone and may be more durable.”
The Patient as Partner
The TJRC’s centralized program guides patients through the entire process of Total Joint Replacement, from the preparation for surgery through the completion of rehabilitation. NorthShore University HealthSystem is partnering with patients to increase their satisfaction and provide state-of-the-art expertise and technology. The Center’s highly trained nurses and staff work with orthopaedic surgeons to ensure that each patient has a comprehensive understanding of both the surgery and rehabilitation following surgery.
Find a Doctor
For a referral to an orthopaedic physician to evaluate your condition for the best treatment option, please call NorthShore University HealthSystem Physician Referral at 847.570.5020.